Speaking of Faith...

Fortunate to have my church located across the street.


I have long known that being outdoors nourishes me. There have been times, in the quietest places that I swear I have heard the "voice" of eternity, truth, something/someone bigger then myself.

Growing up Catholic I came to love and hate rituals. I have peaceful memories of incense, rosary chants, Latin hymns, though these are no longer my practice. During my adolescence awakening though I found much of the doctrine too "hokus pocus." Like a family dinner, the image my five siblings and parents and I filling a pew and singing and praying together was surely a positive force in my life. My journey of truth though started at fourteen when I realized I couldn't believe in virgin birth, though I still liked the story and concept of Mary. And who could deny the power of the myth/reality of Jesus in peoples lives? Living in a small town while raising my kids, choices were very limited - we chose a Lutheran Church. Out of habit and belief in community we still belong, but can I honestly say that is an expression of my faith? No.

I do have to separate Religion and Faith. I must admit my true church these days is found walking the beach solo. NPR's Speaking of Faith http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/) nourishes me more then any book or sermon. Practicing yoga, a walk in the woods and sharing insights and lives with the wonderful people in my life blesses me with inspiration that is no doubt the hand of god, where ever she is.